Outgoing Everton captain Phil Neville, who played with Beckham with Manchester United and England, tweeted: "David Beckham - what an unbelievable career - 4 titles in 4 countries over 100 caps for England and the best ambassador this countries has had!"

Sky Sports' Gary Neville, a close friend and former United team-mate, said: "David Beckham = Amazing Career. He just loved playing football. Congratulations and a pleasure to be a team mate!"

FIFA president Sepp Blatter said: "David Beckham, one of the most iconic figures in global football is retiring from playing. It's the end of a chapter of an amazing story. David grew up as a football-loving child & achieved his dreams, and unquestionably inspired millions of boys & girls to try & do the same. Whatever he chooses to do next I'm sure he'll approach with the same dedication & good grace he displayed the last 21 years. Good luck!"

Leyton Orient added some humour to the situation by saying on their official twitter account: "Already had a few phone calls but to clear things up Beckham's last game is against FC Lorient not us."

West Ham United striker Carlton Cole posted a picture of Beckham and wrote: "So Becks retires at the end of the season, he's had an illustrious career winning many honours on the way! #legend."

West Bromwich Albion's Steven Reid simply said: "Beckham #Legend"

Highly-rated Southampton teenager Luke Shaw said: "David Beckham announces his retirement, what a great player and a legend to the sport."

Tottenham Hotspur's teenage striker, Harry Kane, who spent time this season on loan at Leicester City, said: "Can't believe the main man David Beckham is retiring! Was a huge role model to me growing up. Will always be a legend on and off the pitch!"

Newcastle United's Danny Simpson said: "David Beckham retiring. What a player, what a guy. No-one in the game will ever do what he's done. The guy's a 1 off #legend."

Norwich City's Elliott Bennett said: "Gutted to see the legend that is David Beckham has retired from football. What a player! Many moments of pure magic #RespectDB7"